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Skills into Opportunity – Step Up Sandwell

As we close Step Up Sandwell, we are incredibly proud of what was achieved, and of the difference the project made for local residents.

Funded by Sandwell Council, West Midlands Combined Authority and the UK Government, and delivered by Sandwell African Caribbean Mental Health Foundation and Breakthru CIC, the project worked with residents facing long‑term and complex barriers to work. People who were long-term unemployed or economically inactive.

This included people experiencing serious mental health challenges, learning disabilities and neurodiversity, long‑term health conditions, unstable circumstances and extended periods of unemployment.The focus was never on quick wins. Instead, Step Up Sandwell reduced barriers, rebuilt confidence, developed skills and created pathways into opportunity. For many people, particularly those experiencing crisis, the support needed to move towards work is significant and cannot be rushed.

We know that job searching requires motivation, aspiration and stability. It relies on good mental health, confidence and the ability to plan ahead. People need to be able to recognise their own value, communicate effectively, manage practical demands, and juggle health, caring responsibilities and everyday life. When these foundations are missing, they must be supported first.


This is where community organisations make the difference. We are trusted, accessible, flexible and embedded in the communities we serve. We understand that progress is rarely linear, and that confidence, stability and wellbeing often come before jobs. Supporting people to reduce barriers to work is not a side issue. It is essential.

Through Step Up Sandwell, we supported 134 people overall. Of those who shared feedback, three quarters reported improvements in their health and wellbeing, and over half reported a reduction in the barriers they face. But the real impact sits behind the statistics, in confidence rebuilt, skills developed and the belief restored that a different future is possible.

Huge thanks to our delivery partners, and to everyone involved in making Step Up Sandwell possible. Most of all, congratulations to all the participants who took part. We wish you every success in your next steps.

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Our funders

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Our partners

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